Thalasso à bon prix en Tunisie
by Chanterelle
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Original post
Bonjour, Je sollicite votre aide afin de savoir si on peut trouver un centre de thallasothérapie ou massage à bon prix. Je serai à la fin du mois de mars dans la région de Port El Kantaoui. Je sais que la Tunisie est réputée pour la qualité de ces soins, mais je n`en connais pas plus. Quel genre de traitement est-ce exactement, les prix, et où aller pour recevoir ces soins. Ce sera mon premier voyage en Tunisie, alors j`aimerais bien tenter cette expérience. Merci de vos réponses à l`avance. 😊
😉bonsoir. nous étions l'an dernier à port el kantaoui à l'hotel hasdrubal en thalasso. ce n'est certes pas donné, mais les prestations sont le top. les massages super, hammam, baignoire à remous, etc.... nous avons passé une semaine géniale.
si vous désirez d'autres renseignements, je suis là. sonia
Bonjour Sonia,
J`ai effectivement déjà lu sur ce forum la qualité des soins à l`hotel Hasdrubal. Peux-tu m`en dire un peu plus, soit le prix environ, est-ce au traitement ou pour une demi-journée? Qu`est -ce que un hamman?
J`espère de tes nouvelles à ce sujet.. Merci
😉bonsoir. pour ce qui est des prix, je ne sais plus, car nous avions réservé la thalasso en france en même temps que le séjour. mais je pense que tu peux voir les tarifs de la thalasso sur leu r site internet. le hammam est excellent, tu rentres dans une pièce chaude et humide pendant un moment. ensuite quelqu'un t'enduis d'une pâte, puis te rinces (ce qui nettoie les pores), tu retournes dans cette pièce chaude, et puis tu termines par un quart de repos. tu en sors "lessivé".
à + sonia
Bonjour,
Je suis tout à fait d'accord avec Sonia, les soins à l'hôtel Hasdrubal à Port el Kantaoui sont top, je ne connais pas mieux dans la région. Les locaux sont luxueux, l'ambiance est très agréable, feutrée, les soins sont d'un très haut niveau (massage, enveloppement d'algues, bains bouillonnants, hammam, salles de relaxation très relaxantes, piscines à remous) Il y a un espace central très accueuillant, avec des tisanes de tout genre à volonté.
Les repas sont également très bons, l'hôtel est situé en bord de mer et en même temps au centre de Port el Kantoui, selon le côté par lequel vous sortez. Je vous conseille cet endroit je suis certaine que vous ne le regretterez pas.
En ce qui concerne les prix, je ne connais pas le tarif en "tout compris" (hébergement, pension et soins), j'y vais pour passer la journée, le prix dans ce cas est entre 100 et 150 dinars tout compris. Il y a un site internet, je crois qu'il s'appelle hasdrubal.com
Je précise que je n'ai aucune action dans cet hôtel, que ma publicité est totalement gratuite et conforme à la réalité.
suite à mon message précédent, j'ai trouvé l'adresse internet de cet hôtel :
http://thalasso.tunisie.port-el-kantaoui.thalasso-line.com/FR/thalassotherapie-sousse-hasdrubal.htm
bonne visite
Bonjour à vous deux qui avez eu l`amabilité de me renseigner. Je suis aller visiter le site que vous m`avez référé. Cela m`a permit d`en savoir plus sur les soins de thalloso. Si je n`avais qu`à choisir un seul ou deux soins, lesquels me suggéreriez vous. Un soin spécifique que l`on ne retrouve pas ailleur ou dont c`est la particularité en Tunisie. Si d`autres personnes connaissent d`autres endroits où nous pourrions expérimenter ce type de soin, veuillez m`en aviser Merci! j`ai vraiment le gôut d`essayer quelque chose et si possible à prix abordable...
Si je devais choisir seulement 2 soins, je prendrais d'abord l'enveloppement d'algues, c'est extra pour se remettre en forme et ensuite le massage, c'était très relaxant, très agréable, ma masseuse était très douée et efficace, le massage du visage était la "cerise sur le gâteau" en fin de séance. Mais je conseille de prendre les 4 soins, car le bain bouillonnant et le massage sous douche était très bien aussi. Par ailleurs, le sauna et le hammam sont à accès libre, la piscine à eau de mer aussi, ainsi que les pièces de relaxation, salle de musculation et salon de thé.
Si vous avez une adresse e-mail, je peux vous faire parvenir des photos des locaux (elles sont trop lourdes pour pouvoir être chargées en annexe).
Merci canari pour ces infos, effectivement j`apprécierais recevoir vos photos. Je vous transmettrai mon email en privé. J`ai reçu de l`information aussi sur un autre centre dans un hôtel de Madhia qui semble aussi très intéressant. L`avantage à Hasdrubal, c`est que c`est tout prêt de l`hôtel où je serai logé à Port El kantaoui. Je continue quand Merci encore!!
😉bonjour. coucou, me revoilà. je suis entièrement d'accord avec canari. je crois qu'il faut prendre le s 4 soins par jour. celà fait partie d'un tout. mais le summum en fin de soins c'est bien l'heure de massage. çà vous achève!!!! et après, dodo!!!entre les soins, la tisanerie est très agréable pour patienter. oh, rien que d'y penser, j'y retournerais volontiers.!!!!!
bon week-end. sonia
Allo soniarall,
Oui je suis certaine que le "top" soit les 4 soins, mais nous avons si peu de temps que je ne veux passer trop de temps, soit une journée complète en thalasso. Quoique je sache très bien que je ne m`y ennuirais pas. J`ai tellement hâte à mon voyage, il me semble que j`y pense sans arrêt. J`ai eu comme info qu`il y a aussi de la thallaso au Madhia Palace à Madhia. Je vais m`informer sur ce centre aussi. A la prochaine!😊
J`ai reçu des photos de Liliane(Canari) sur le centre de thallaso Hasdrubal à Port El Kantaoui, et ça donne vraiment envie d`y aller. Merci encore pour ces belles photos, le jour que je m`y retrouverai, je penserai à vous deux Canari et Sonia qui m`avez si bien inspiré. Compte-tenu qu`au mois de mars, il sera impossible de se baigner dans la mer l`eau étant trop froide, il sera d`autant plus intéressant de profiter de ce centre!!!😊😉C`est sûr que j`essaierai l`algothérapie et un bon massage .😏
Eh bien là, c`est bien différent, j`pourrais me permettre les quatres soins. J`apprécie d`avoir cette info. car je croyais devoir passer une journée complète. J`imaginais environ une heure pour chacun des soins entrecoupés de pauses à la tisanerie ou de baignade à la piscine ou hammam. J`ai tellement de choses et lieux à visiter que je ne voulais pas y passer trop de temps. J`trouve ^ca vraiment super de pouvoir s`échanger toutes ces informations sur ce forum. A la prochaine peut-être!!!😉
Excuse moi à nouveau. Toi qui prenais les servives à la journée sans être en tout compris, comme je vais le faire, peux-tu me dire si tu dois réserver à l`avance ou si tu peux aller la journée même et t`inscrire.
JE PASSE TOUJOURS A LA RECEPTION DE LA THALASSO EN DEBUT DE SEJOUR A PORT EL KANTAOUI POUR RESERVER MES SOINS. CELA ME PERMET DE PRENDRE UN RENDEZ VOUS AUX HEURES QUI M'INTERESSENT ET CELA ME PERMET D'ORGANIER MA JOURNEE COMME JE LE VEUX. IL EST CERTAIN QU'IL EST POSSIBLE DE PRENDRE LES 4 SOINS SUR UNE DEMI-JOURNEE MAIS J'AIME MIEUX PROFITER AU MAXIMUM DES POSSIBILITES DU CENTRE AU LIEU DE ME DEPECHER ET TOUT ENCHAINER SUR 3 OU 4 HEURES. J’Y PASSE TOUJOURS LA JOURNEE COMPLETE, IL EST VRAI QUE JE VAIS A PORT EL KANTOUI TOUS LES ANS, ET MEME 2 OU 3 FOIS PAR AN CAR J'ADORE CETTE REGION ET QUE MAINTENANT J'AI UNE MAISON LA BAS. SI VOUS SOUHAITEZ VISITEZ LES ENVIRONS, JE PEUX VOUS CONSEILLER LES ENDROITS QUE JE PREFERE (MAIS CELA DEPEND BIEN SUR DE CE QUE VOUS AIMEZ VOUS MEME) IL Y A BEAUCOUP DE CHOSES A VOIR DANS LES ENVIRONS .
Bonjour, J`apprécierait bien sûr entendre parler des endroits que vous préférez dans la région. J`aurai quelques jours où je pourrai visiter à mon gré les environs. Au début de mon séjour, je passe une journée à Hammamet à circuler librement, par la suite mon voyage est organisé pour plusieurs jours. Nous descendrons vers le sud et visiterons je crois la majorité des sites réputés pour être intéressant: en passant par Kairouan, nous descendrons vers Tozeur, Chott El Jerid, Douz, Ksar Ghilane, Tataouine, Matmata.Et ensuite nous remontons en direction de Port El Kantaoui en passant par Sfax et El Jem. Ce circuit se fera en 4x4. Nous serons alors pour 6 nuits à port El Kantaoui. Je compte bien pendant ces journées voir les environs en utilisant les moyens de transport commun soit train, autobus, taxi. C`est sûr que c`est très court pour visiter tout ça, mais nous n`avions pas plus de temps à consacrer à ce voyage.(Le travail!!!oblige) Alors si vous pouvez me recommander des endroits spécifique ou particulier, je suit tout ouïe!! Comme je vous l`ai déjà dit je veux me remplir de belles expériences et souvenirs!!
Votre circuit est très intéressant, je pense que vous allez apprécier, moi j'aime beaucoup ksar ghilane pour la grandeur du désert, et aussi Matmata pour visiter les maisons troglodites et être en contact avec la vie simple et chaleureuse. C'est un véritable dépaysement, vous verrez, je pense que vous aurez effectivement besoin de vous reposer un peu après ce superbe voyage. La thalasso vous remettra en grande forme, vous pourrez visiter Port el Kantaoui, c'est un petit port charmant, il est très agréable de se promener sur le port, de prendre un thé à la menthe au café maure qui se trouve à un coin du port. Je vous conseille aussi d'aller à la médina de Sousse (cette ville est toute proche, vous pouvez y aller en taxi, le prix n'est pas élevé), il y a des choses intéressantes à acheter mais il faut toujours discuter le prix, c'est une habitude en Tunisie.
Si vous voulez ajouter une journée de visite, vous pouvez aller à Tunis (la capitale) vous pouvez prendre le train à Sousse (c'est environ à 100 ou 120 km) A Tunis, les endroits à visiter sont également la médina, mais il y a aussi le musée Bardo (mosaïque) et Carthage et surtout Sidi bou Saïd, c'est un quartier à l'extérieur de Tunis, un petit village typique, avec une âme, qui domine le port de pêche et de loisirs. Pour tous ces endroits, je vous conseille de prendre le taxi.
Je vous souhaite de très bonnes vacances, n'hésitez pas à discuter avec les tunisiens, ils sont charmants, ils aiment discuter avec les touristes, cela leur permet de voyager tout en restant chez eux et ils sont toujours prêts à vous faire connaître leur propre pays.
Merci pour ces informations, j`en tiendrai compte. Je tenterai de faire un tour aux différents endroits dont vous m`avez parlé. Je vous trouve très choyé d`avoir une maison dans cette région et de pouvoir en profiter à quelques reprises durant l`année. Je n`y suis pas encore allé et déjà je me dis que j`espère pouvoir y retourner en d`autres occasions avec un peu plus de temps pour avoir vraiment le temps de profiter tranquillement de ce beau pays. Les commentaires sont tellement positifs de tout le monde. Vous qui connaissez bien la région, pourriez-vous me donner quelques références concernant de petits restaurants ou snacks ou cafés sympathique pleine d`ambiance et /ou la nourriture est particulièrement bonne ou typique .Si ce n`est trop vous demander, bien évidemment, ça fait beaucoup de questions à la même personne!!
Je ne peux pas vraiment conseiller de petits restaurants typiques, avec ambiance, cela ne se fait pas trop en Tunisie. Il y a de très bons restaurants au prix de restaurants moyens en France. Je ne sais pas si je peux faire de la publicité, mais j'aime particulièrement à Port el Kantaoui le restaurant la Dorade, le restaurant Méditerranée sur le port. En principe, tous les restaurants du port sont très bien, de même pour ceux qui sont autour de la fontaine. Au fait, dans quel hôtel allez vous, il y a aussi de très bons restaurants dans certains hôtels.
bonjour, J`irai voir la Dorade en passant. Quant à mon hôtel, c`est le Marhaba Palace à Port El Kantaoui. C`est je crois tout prêt du Hasdrubal. Le connaît-tu, si oui quel en est ton opinion? J`ai vu très peu d`opinion sur cet hôtel.
Chantal
Bonsoir Chantal
Excuse moi d'avoir tardé à te répondre, j'ai quelques problèmes avec ma messagerie. Je n'ai pas non plus consulté le site ces derniers jours.
Je ne connais pas spécialement l'hôtel marhaba palace de port el kantaoui (comme j'ai une maison là bas, je ne connais pas trop les hôtels de l'intérieur) De l'extérieur, cet hôtel semble bien, il est grand, mon mari le connait, c'est un 4 étoiles, mais pas un grand luxe. Par contre, il est bien situé, pratique, si tu peux choisir la chambre, tu peux avoir vue sur mer. Il est vraiment au centre de Port el Kantaoui, près du port, tout est accessible à pied, la thalasso Hasdrubal n'est pas loin.
A bientôt
Liliane
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Clément
I’m finalizing the loop I’d like to do in May over 13 days, starting and ending in Essaouira.
We’re planning to rent a vehicle and are pretty active—we’re not really into crowds (that’s why I’ve decided to skip Marrakech).
Here’s my proposed itinerary:
Trip Proposal Summary: From May 13 (morning arrival) to May 26 (morning departure) Arrival and departure: Essaouira Day 1 (May 13): Arrival in Essaouira – Settling in / Exploring / Rest Day 2 (May 14): Essaouira – Water activities Day 3 (May 15): Essaouira to Tafraoute (~5h30) – route via Agadir – arrival and first exploration; Question: Is a detour to Taroudant worth considering? Day 4 (May 16): Tafraoute – Hike in the granite rocks – wild bivouac Day 5 (May 17): Tafraoute – Aït Mansour gorges – oasis – night in a hostel Day 6 (May 18): Tafraoute → Foum Zguid (~5h) – transition route – simple overnight or bivouac Day 7 (May 19): Foum Zguid → Zagora (~3h) – Draa Valley – desert prep Day 8 (May 20): Zagora → M'Hamid El Ghizlane → Erg Chigaga – departure with 4x4 guide – entering the dunes – bivouac Day 9 (May 21): Erg Chigaga – full desert day – walking, exploring – bivouac Day 10 (May 22): Desert → Ouarzazate (~5–6h) – leaving the desert – rest Day 11 (May 23): Aït Benhaddou – early visit – short hike – overnight stay Day 12 (May 24): Aït Benhaddou → Telouet – route toward the Atlas – start of trek – bivouac Day 13 (May 25): Atlas → Essaouira (~5–6h) – end of trek – return to Essaouira (overnight) Day 14 (May 26): Essaouira – free time + return flight
What do you think?
I aimed for an excursion to the Chigaga desert from M’Hamid because it seems less touristy and allows for a more compact loop. Is that a good idea? Is the drive to M’Hamid maybe too tedious?
Open to your great tips if there’s room for optimization!
All ears! :)
Thanks in advance and have a great day!
Clément
A lot of people find it important to stick to their budget when traveling—not to skimp, but to visit as many places as possible since traveling is their hobby.
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
In this post, I want to share some tips for those coming to Morocco who want their trip to be budget-friendly.
1. Prebook everything: hotels or riads, car rentals, or tours. If you book these in advance, it’ll make your life easier. You won’t have to deal with hagglers or people trying to overcharge you for services that are available online for free. Use platforms like Booking, Expedia, carsrental.ma, Airbnb, and other booking services to get this done properly.
2. Exchange your money to Moroccan dirhams as soon as you land. 1 € is always a little over 10 dirhams, but many people get charged as if it were exactly 10 dirhams per euro.
3. When visiting an old site or the old medina, avoid talking to vendors and shop owners—they’re really good at getting your attention and making you overpay for things.
4. Ask your tour guide to buy things for you. Yes, they do get a commission, but you’ll probably pay way more if you buy something yourself that they can get cheaply.
5. Walk everywhere. You don’t need a taxi for every little trip. Pick a good location and walk—most Moroccan cities are safe during normal hours.
6. Buy your food, drinks, etc., from supermarkets at normal prices. They can’t overcharge you since they scan every product.
I think that’s it for now.
Take care
Hi everyone! 😊
We’re traveling as a family to Marrakech from April 19 to 24, and there’ll be 15 of us (all ages), staying in the Targa neighborhood (El Idrissi Street).
I’d love your advice on a few things! 🙏
🚗 Vehicle rental
We’re thinking of renting 3 cars. We’ve seen really low prices online, but often without insurance.
👉 Do you have any reliable contacts or personal experiences to share?
👉 Would you recommend getting specific “tourist” insurance?
🏛️ Visits – Bahia Palace & Saadian Tombs
We’d like to visit the Bahia Palace and the Saadian Tombs, but:
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
We can’t find single tickets online We only see guided tours with fixed times (like 9:30 AM / 4-hour tours)
👉 Do you know if it’s possible to book without a guide? 👉 Or do we have to buy tickets on-site? (We’re a little worried about crowds and lines, especially with older folks in the group.) 🍽️ Restaurants / meals We’ve spotted the Grand Bazaar Marrakech for a meal. 👉 Any thoughts? 👉 Could you recommend other restaurants in the same budget? (We’re a big group, so it needs to stay reasonable.) For lunch/snacks, we’ve seen:
Snack Toubkal Goûter Saveur
👉 If anyone’s been, I’d love your feedback! 😊 🛒 Practical info – Targa neighborhood We’ll be in Targa (El Idrissi Street). 👉 Are there shops nearby for quick groceries (breakfast, water, etc.)?
If you’ve got any great tips, contacts, or little tricks, I’d love to hear them! 😍 Thanks so much for your help! 💖
As-salamu alaykum!
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
We’re heading to Morocco as a family from April 22 to May 8. It’s a bit short to explore such a beautiful and vast country, but school and work commitments, you know how it is... My partner is a musician and absolutely loves Gnawa music. Unfortunately, we won’t have time to visit Essaouira, as we’re heading south toward the Valley of the Roses...
Do you know of any places around Marrakech, Ouarzazate, or Kelaat M’Gouna where we might have the chance to meet Gnawa musicians? We’ll also be staying a few days in Aït Benhaddou and Skoura during our trip toward the Dadès Valley. If you have any good spots to buy a guembri along the way, I’d love to hear about them too! :)
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Mathieu
Mid-May: arriving alone (so, a "petit taxi"?) at Marrakech airport around 4:30 PM,
is it advisable to take a taxi at the airport (cost?) or is it wiser to book one through the hotel before departure (which would cost me 20 €)?
I think I’ve seen lower fares elsewhere (12 €?).
Destination: Riad Sijane near Djemaa El Fna square. Thanks!
hi there
we’re heading to Hammamet in a few months
what would you recommend visiting for a week?
best regards
Hi there,
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
I’m planning my next trip outside Europe for next year, but unfortunately, I don’t have a choice with the dates—it’s late June to early July. Last year, I went to Japan for three weeks, and it was constantly 36-37°C with over 90% humidity. It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t impossible either.
For Egypt, I know it’s a period to avoid if possible, but I’m thinking that by the sea, it might be manageable. Otherwise, I’ll consider another destination.
Day 1: Arrival in Hurghada in the evening Day 2, 3, 4: Hurghada Day 5: Hurghada, then drive to Luxor in the early afternoon Day 6: Luxor Day 7: Luxor, then drive back to Hurghada in the late afternoon Day 8, 9, 10, 11: Hurghada Day 12: Return flight
For the Hurghada trip, either rent a car or—easier—a private car/van. Is it worth adding an extra day in Luxor?
During the stay, we’re planning activities like camel rides, quad biking, jeep tours, snorkeling, and jet skiing.
Thanks for your replies
Hi there,
We’re planning a trip to Morocco in September-October in our Fiat camper van, which isn’t a 4x4 but has already handled quite a bit of rough travel. While reading up on southern Morocco, we’ve been drawn to the Aguinane oasis but I’m having trouble locating it on the map. Is it possible to get there without a 4x4?
Thanks for your help
Hi,
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Does anyone know the address of a rose flower distillery in the Valley of Roses / Kelaa M'Gouna? A traditional distillery, not just the tourist shop.
Thanks a bunch!
Nicolas :-)
Hi there,
Can anyone tell me if it's possible to travel from the Dades Gorges (Msemrir) to the Todra Gorges (Tamtatouche) on a paved road? Thanks in advance for any answers.
Hello,
We’d like to hire a French-speaking guide (agency, professional, or volunteer) to show us around Cairo over three days.
Trip planned for November 22, 23, and 24, 2026—four veteran French travelers.
We’re open to any leads, contact info, or suggestions.
Best regards,
Jacques
Hi there,
I have a layover in Algeria.
I won’t be leaving the airport.
The two tickets aren’t with the same airline.
Do I need a transit visa?
Thanks for any details and your help!
Hi there,
I live in Casablanca and my parents, who are 80, will be joining me in Marrakech at the beginning of May for a few days.
We’ll be renting a car to get around.
Do you have any suggestions for things to see or visit within a 2-3 hour drive max from Marrakech that aren’t too touristy?
My parents can walk a bit, but at 80, no climbing Mount Toubkal!
Thanks so much in advance for your ideas!
Hi everyone, just back from the 8-day Marrakech-Merzouga loop by car, and I’d love to share my feedback in case it helps some of you. Big thanks to all the forum members who kindly answered my questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Trip from Friday the 20th to Saturday the 28th, flying out of Marseille with Ryanair
- Landed late around 8 PM local time, exchanged some currency, and the rental agency (Magdaz Car, which I highly recommend) delivered the car straight to the airport with some great route tips (don’t blindly trust Maps.me). The night drive was a bit intense—lots of people out and about due to Ramadan. Stayed at Riad Midhou (really nice) on the outskirts of the city, which made it easy to hit the road the next morning.
- Day 1: Marrakech to Skoura. The drive was smooth, roads are great, but watch out for roundabout priority—it’s different from France. Beautiful route. Quick stop in Ouarzazate for lunch, Ait Benhaddou for the view (stunning), and the Fint Oasis (meh...). Spent the night at Taloute Ecolodge in Skoura, overlooking the palm grove (super cozy).
- Day 2: Skoura to Todgha Gorges via the Valley of Roses and Dades Gorges. Adventure-packed day! We crossed the Valley of Roses (pretty, but not as amazing as I’d hoped) and took a "shortcut" recommended by the *Routard* guide to reach the Dades Gorges without backtracking. After asking locals, they said, "It’s doable." Turns out it was a narrow, rocky cliffside track—no way to turn around! A stressful moment, with a nice scratch on the bumper and a good sweat. Fine in an SUV or 4x4, but not in a Logan... Then the Dades Gorges (nice) and a detour through the north to reach Todgha from above. Gorgeous mountain road and a quick stop on some snow patches—touching African snow! Spent the night at *Les Gorges de Todgha*—great place, except for the bathroom. The Todgha Gorges themselves are stunning!
Day 3: Todgha to Merzouga. Beautiful drive, and the view of the erg (sand dunes) on arrival is breathtaking! Totally worth the trip. Explored the desert and stayed at *Café du Sud* hotel just outside Merzouga—absolutely gorgeous.
Day 4: Merzouga. Desert exploration and chilling by the hotel pool (with a bonus sunburn). Lunch in Merzouga—I recommend *Dakar*—their lemon tajine was amazing. Spent the night in the hotel’s luxury camp, including a camel ride. The camp was beautiful, but I was disappointed we weren’t deeper in the desert given the price (100 € per person, including dinner, breakfast, and camel ride).
Day 5: Merzouga to Tamnougalt. Gorgeous route. First fine (a supposed stop sign...) but the officer was super nice—only 150 MAD. Stayed at *Kasbah Maktob*, right in the middle of ruins—really unique and beautiful!
Day 6: Tamnougalt to Marrakech. Another beautiful drive, and a second fine (minor speeding), same amount. Crossed a windy mountain pass during a big storm—traffic was blocked in the opposite direction (not sure why), causing massive jams for those coming from Marrakech. A few downed cables, but nothing serious. Arriving in Marrakech was tricky—hard to find the rental agency, and the traffic was intense (watch out for GPS trying to send you through the medina). Ask the rental company to meet you somewhere quiet. They didn’t even notice the damaged bumper... Stayed at *Riad Zifamo* in the heart of the medina. Big change of pace—so many people and so much hustle!
Day 7: Marrakech. Lots of wandering through the souk and a quick trip to Gueliz (not essential). A few tips for the medina: watch out for scooters weaving too fast, always negotiate prices (aim for at least 1/3 off what they ask, unless it’s a small amount), don’t buy spices—more expensive than in France! Head to the *Carrefour Market* in Gueliz for better prices. In the end, not many truly unique items—you’ll find more or less the same things everywhere.
Day 8: Early morning flight. We’d booked a car to the airport from the riad, but a taxi would’ve been fine—plenty available even at 7 AM. Security wasn’t an issue (we had lighters and liquids over 100 ml).
A few extra notes: Pleasantly surprised by the road quality—just a few potholes here and there, but overall very drivable. Watch out for the police—they’re everywhere! The car cost me 30 € per day (with the *Routard* discount) and about 90 € in gas. No safety concerns, no harassment, and no stomach issues, despite the ice in Marrakech. Breakfasts at the hotels were usually hearty—take advantage! The timing (end of February) was perfect—pleasant daytime temps and cool nights. Since it was Ramadan, nothing unusual to report, except it was hard to find food outside Marrakech at lunchtime. If I did it again, Merzouga is a must, but I’d spend a night in a real desert bivouac, deeper in the dunes. My stops (no more than 300 km a day) were well-paced, and with so few cars on the road, it wasn’t tiring—even though I’m not usually a fan of driving... Happy to answer any questions!
Hi there,
I’m traveling solo to Egypt. Could you give me a rough idea of the budget for:
meals
hotels
taxis including tips
visits...
Just an estimate, of course.
For 15 days, what would the price range be, considering there’s an overnight train and a Nile cruise?
I’d like to compare with a travel agency. Is it more worthwhile to go through an agency despite the downsides of group travel?
Otherwise, if a travel buddy is interested in this country, why not?
Thanks a lot!




